The Mexicans only just made it to the World Cup, narrowly edging out Panama on the final day of qualifying to reach the Intercontinental play-off where they beat New Zealand.

But after seeing off Cameroon, courtesy of Oribe Peralta's goal just after the hour in rainy conditions at the Arena das Dunas in Natal, Herrera says they will now be looking to win against the competition favourites.

Winners: Peralta celebrates Mexico's only goal and now their manager says they want to beat Brazil

The 1-0 win was the very least the Mexicans deserved for an enterprising display in which Giovani dos Santos controversially had two first-half goals ruled out for offside.

Mexico face their biggest challenge next as they travel to Fortaleza to face the hosts in their second Group A game next Tuesday.

After the win Herrera said: 'The team did great work.

Team spirit: Mexico struggled through qualifying but are now 'excited' about their next game against the hosts

Masked men: The Mexicans were helped by their raucous support who were out in force in Natal

'We need to work, now we are at the top with three points. We will go out to win the next game, we are more excited than ever.

'We will concentrate on what we have to do.'

Herrera was pleased with the way his side dealt with their two early setbacks, when former Tottenham forward Dos Santos was twice, incorrectly, denied by the linesman's flag.

Bring on Brazil: The Mexicans have had their confidence boosted after starting their campaign with three points

He said: 'They disallowed two goals that were valid, but we knew it could be like that.

'The important thing is that we picked ourselves up, we looked for the result and we got it.'

Cameroon, who have won just one match at the World Cup finals since 1990, were underwhelming after a week of turmoil following a row between players and the national federation over bonuses.

Outspoken: Herrera has a word with referee Wilmar Roldan after growing frustrated with his decisions

Close: Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez came off the bench and was unlucky not to double the lead

Coach Volker Finke, however, remained optimistic.

The German said: 'We're very disappointed with the result - I think we deserved a draw.

'There's still all to play for, though, and we're going to head into the Croatia match with the intention of winning.'

Frustration: Former Spurs man Dos Santos had two goals incorrectly ruled out as Mexico dominated